Recent comments in /f/Maine

Ok_Olive9438 t1_jdrqtw7 wrote

I would think a good real estate buyer’s agent would be helpful here, in looking for towns that would allow this, and then looking for land in those places. Also, as others have mentioned, some of what you can do cam be done with a land trust.

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Quiet_Hornet_5506 t1_jdrmwie wrote

Having lived in both and homesteading, including livestock, I can say there are pros and cons to both. Maine overall has lower property taxes, but Vermont will abate property taxes for your primary residence based on income. Vermont has a larger, more established farm to table scene if you are looking for side income. Very northern VT is much less regulated than almost anywhere in the country; however, some of the laws have been shifting in VT rapidly in ways that native Vermonters likely would not have chosen. There are many places in Maine where you can't build a second house on your land, so it is worth speaking with the Code Officer before buying a parcel. Overall, I have found the cost of living is lower in Maine, but I miss the inexpensive and amazing local food in VT. Happy to chat more about this if you want to DM me.

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PencillCat t1_jdrlyrj wrote

Yeah unfortunately most of what you're asking (relating to building) is reliant on which town you'd want to build on. Your best bet is to research which towns you'd want to move, and then consult a lawyer or code enforcement. Make sure everything that you'd want to do is possible before buying. Some towns have funny ordinances.

Don't be like the guy who bought land next to my family's camp wanting to build a cabin, only to find after the fact that town regulations didn't allow it. 🤭

The trust thing is definitely possible too. My family's camp is in a trust, and neither my grandmother's kids nor us grandkids can sell it until only one of us is left to inherit it.

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bugdude666 t1_jdrku99 wrote

My grandmother bought a bunch of acres some years back and gave a plot to my parents with the understanding that they’ll take care of her as she starts declining. It is my understanding that she gave them an actual lot on her land, and that my parents own that land. It differs from town to town so I can’t offer much advice, but it is definitely doable (and in my opinion an excellent idea)

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